Hy’s Steak House donates $10k to support training of future restaurateurs

HONOLULU – Hy’s Steak House has donated $10,000 to support the Kapi‘olani Community College Culinary program. This American Culinary Federation-accredited program continues its strong tradition and leadership in providing Hawai‘i and the world with skilled culinarians knowledgeable in Asian and Western cuisines, and state-of-the-art pastry arts. In 2009, a student team representing KCC Culinary Arts won the American Culinary Federation’s National Student Culinary Competition, earning it the title of the “Best in the Nation.” In July 2012, the program was provided with the maximum 7 year re-accreditation from its external accrediting body, the American Culinary Federation Educational Foundation (ACFEF) and honored with Exemplary Program status.

“Private support like this gift from Hy’s Steak House are instrumental in the Kapi‘olani Community College Culinary program’s continued excellence,” said Culinary Arts Department chair Ronald Takahashi.

This is not Hy’s Steak House’s first contribution to Hawai‘i’s community and Kapi‘olani CC (KCC). In March 2013, Hy’s was among the Hawai‘i businesses that contributed to the award-winning KCC Team as they prepared for the Regional Culinary Competition. In recognition of its commitment and contributions to the people of the Honolulu, Hy’s was recently recognized by the City and County of Honolulu.

“Thriving cities need thriving restaurants. In order for a restaurant to do well, it needs trained, talented culinary professionals. This gift will help nurture the program that grows our local culinary stars,” said Wakana Tabata, managing director at Hy’s.

Hy’s Steak House has existed as a fine dining steak house in the heart of Waikiki for 37 years and is named as a top 10 restaurant in Honolulu in Zagat’s Guide for America’s Top Restaurants.

Kapi‘olani Community College Chancellor Leon Richards concluded, “Hy’s supports local suppliers, farmers, and many vendors throughout the city. Hy’s is an example of how businesses contribute to the local economy and strengthen the community.”

The University of Hawai‘i Foundation, a nonprofit organization, raises private funds to support the University of Hawai‘i System. The mission of the University of Hawai‘i Foundation is to unite donors’ passions with the University of Hawai‘i’s aspirations by raising philanthropic support and managing private investments to benefit UH, the people of Hawai‘i and our future generations. www.uhfoundation.org